TAILINGS SOLUTIONS – Permafrost studies available from MEND

OTTAWA - MEND "Report 1.61.4: Covers for Reactive Tailings Located in Permafrost Regions" is available from the secretariat at mend@nrcan.gc.ca for Cdn$35.

The report provides a brief introduction to permafrost issues and then focuses on applications of covers constructed over reactive tailings in Canadian permafrost regions. Case histories for Nanisivik, Raglan, Lupin and Rankin Inlet are examined, which represent sites with different tailings operations, cover design approaches and physical and climate conditions. Parameters that govern the design of the cover are addressed including: cover materials, factors affecting the depth of active thaw zone, temperature changes and variations, water saturations, and pore water quality.